Picture a Connecticut storyteller who swapped corporate life for cozy mysteries brimming with humor and heart—meet Judith K. Ivie! Known for her Kate Lawrence Mystery series, Ivie crafts tales of strong women navigating life’s twists and murders with wit. Her journey from nonfiction to founding Mainly Murder Press makes her a beacon for aspiring writers.
A lifelong Connecticut resident, Ivie’s knack for storytelling evolved from a diverse career, culminating in a leap to full-time writing. Her mysteries, set in historic Wethersfield, blend romance, humor, and clever sleuthing, earning her a loyal following.
The Making of Judith K. Ivie
Born and raised in Connecticut, Judith K. Ivie’s early years were steeped in the state’s charm, which later inspired her vivid settings. After a stint south of San Francisco, she returned home, diving into marketing, public relations, and executive assistance for top corporate leaders. These roles honed her knack for detail and human dynamics, skills that shine in her fiction. By the early 2000s, Ivie transitioned from nonfiction essays and articles to her true passion: mystery novels, spurred by a desire to create engaging, character-driven stories.
Judith K. Ivie’s Unforgettable Stories
Ivie’s Kate Lawrence Mystery series, launched in 2006, is her hallmark, published by Mainly Murder Press. The series follows Kate, a 40-something realtor in Hartford, Connecticut, who trades high-stress jobs for a quieter life—only to stumble into murders. Waiting for Armando (2009) kicks off with Kate and her sassy colleagues solving a law firm murder, celebrating resilient legal assistants. Murder on Old Main Street (2009) dives into small-town gossip and blackmail, with Kate clearing a coffee shop owner’s name. A Skeleton in the Closet (2009) blends humor and heart as Kate navigates quirky Wethersfield settings. Dying Wishes (2012) tackles assisted suicide with sensitivity, showcasing Ivie’s ability to weave social issues into cozy mysteries.
Ivie’s style is light yet poignant, with strong female leads, romantic subplots, and a humorous edge. Her Wethersfield settings feel like characters themselves, grounding her stories in New England charm. Readers love her relatable characters and plots that balance escapism with thought-provoking themes.
Why Judith K. Ivie Matters
Judith K. Ivie’s impact extends beyond her books. By founding Mainly Murder Press, she created a platform for dozens of authors, offering a royalty-paying publisher that nurtures talent overlooked by larger houses. Her encouragement of new writers to embrace marketing reflects her practical approach to publishing’s evolving landscape. Ivie’s stories resonate with readers seeking smart, funny mysteries, while her philanthropy—donating online sales proceeds to Our Companions Domestic Animal Sanctuary—shows her heart. Her legacy lies in empowering authors and delighting readers with tales that linger.
- Birthplace: Connecticut, USA
- Key Works: Kate Lawrence Mystery series (9 books, 2009–2016)
- Notable Achievement: Founded Mainly Murder Press
- Fun Fact: Proceeds support animal welfare
Snag Waiting for Armando and dive into Judith K. Ivie’s cozy, clever mysteries—you’ll be hooked!